Overview
- Belgium confirmed late Saturday that Doku will miss Sunday’s Group G game with Iran after being diagnosed with a respiratory infection and is resting under team medical supervision.
- Doku started Belgium’s opening match against Egypt earlier in the tournament, playing into the 86th minute, but left a training session with breathing issues in the days that followed.
- The Manchester City winger told Reuters that he would want to return home for the birth of his first child in the second week of July if the timing overlaps with Belgium’s run in the World Cup.
- L'Equipe presenter France Pierron sharply criticised Doku’s plan on air and later apologised for her remarks after widespread public backlash.
- Belgian officials are reported to be arranging travel contingencies, including private-jet options, while coaches will monitor Doku’s recovery and reassess his availability for the final group game and any knockout fixtures.